A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Three Strikes, You're Out is a law that was introduced in the United States in 1994. It mandates life sentences or extremely long terms without parole for criminals who have been convicted of a third felony or three felonies involving violence, rape, use of a deadly weapon, or molestation. The law was introduced to address public outrage over murders, assaults, rapes, and child molestations by released ex-convicts with records of repeated violent crimes. However, there are concerns that the law does not distinguish between violent and non-violent crimes and does not allow for judicial discretion in sentencing.

Example: In California, a man was sentenced to life in prison without parole under the Three Strikes, You're Out law. He had been convicted of two non-violent felonies in the past and was then found guilty of stealing a pair of socks from a department store. Because this was his third felony, he was given a life sentence.

Explanation: This example illustrates how the Three Strikes, You're Out law can be controversial. The man in this example was given a life sentence for a non-violent crime, which some people argue is too harsh. Others argue that the law is necessary to keep repeat offenders off the streets and prevent them from committing more serious crimes.